The declaration of independence stands for the idea that all people are equal and have rights and that the government's job is to protect these rights. If it doesn't it should be changed. They want to change the king like the social contract theory states that people should choose their government.
The period of US history from the 1890s to the 1920s is usually referred to as the Progressive Era, an era of intense social and political reform aimed at making progress toward a better society.
Progressive Era reformers sought to harness the power of the federal government to eliminate unethical and unfair business practices, reduce corruption, and counteract the negative social effects of industrialization.
During the Progressive Era, protections for workers and consumers were strengthened, and women finally achieved the right to vote.
Characteristics of the Progressive Era include purification of the government, modernization, a focus on family and education, prohibition, and women's suffrage.
